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National Parks
Nino Konis Santana National Park
Timor‑Leste’s first and largest national park and protected area, the Nino Konis Santana National Park encompasses the entire eastern tip of the island and the surrounding marine waters. Forming part of the Coral Triangle, the global centre of marine biodiversity, this vast sanctuary includes Jaco Island and Lake Ira Lalaro, combining coastal reefs, dense forests, and culturally significant villages into one extraordinary landscape. Named in honour of local independence commander Nino Konis Santana, the national park is both a natural and cultural treasure.
Visitors encounter forested mountain ranges thick with orchids, ferns, banyan, rosewood, and fig trees, alongside over 200 species of rare and endemic birds, Rusa deer and spotted cuscus. Off-shore, sea turtles, manta rays, whale sharks, dolphins, dugongs, and giant clams thrive in the deep‑water trenches and seagrass beds. The adjoining reef system hosts an astonishing diversity of reef fish and more than 367 coral species, making it one of the richest marine ecosystems on Earth.
Beyond its ecological value, the park holds immense cultural significance, with sacred sites, local rituals, and Uma Lulik (traditional sacred houses) woven into its landscape. As of June 2026, the park has been recognized as part of the UNESCO Nino Konis Santana Biosphere Reserve, covering almost 300,000 hectares of national park, buffer zones, and transition lands — a milestone that elevates its global importance and ensures stronger conservation and sustainable tourism efforts.
National Park Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão
The recently established Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão National Park, located in the central highlands, focuses on protecting upland ecosystems and their associated wildlife. The park is characterised by its mountain forests, grasslands, and dramatic landscapes that provide vital habitats for rare and endemic species, including the Timor sparrow and various reptiles. The park also serves as a watershed for several major rivers, ensuring water security for the surrounding communities.
Timor-Leste’s national parks are not just ecological treasures but also key areas for sustainable development and ecotourism. Visitors are drawn to the opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and trekking, with local guides offering insights into the region’s natural and cultural history.